Chicago Bears Lose DT Andrew Billings to Cardinals

The veteran defensive tackle signs with Arizona in NFL free agency.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:25pm

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The Chicago Bears have lost defensive tackle Andrew Billings to the Arizona Cardinals in NFL free agency. Billings, a 6-year veteran, signed a 3-year deal with the Cardinals after spending the last two seasons with the Bears.

Why it matters

Billings was a key part of the Bears' defensive line rotation, providing depth and experience up front. His departure leaves a hole that the team will need to address, either through free agency or the upcoming draft.

The details

Billings, 28, started 12 games for the Bears in 2025 and recorded 34 tackles and 2 sacks. He was a 4th-round pick by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2016 and spent his first 4 NFL seasons there before joining the Bears in 2024.

  • Billings signed with the Arizona Cardinals on March 15, 2026.

The players

Andrew Billings

A 6-year veteran defensive tackle who spent the last two seasons with the Chicago Bears.

Arizona Cardinals

The NFL team that signed Andrew Billings in free agency.

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What they’re saying

“Andrew is a proven veteran who will add depth and experience to our defensive line. We're excited to have him join our team.”

— Steve Keim, General Manager, Arizona Cardinals (Arizona Cardinals press release)

What’s next

The Bears will need to find a replacement for Billings either through free agency or the upcoming NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The loss of Andrew Billings is a setback for the Bears' defensive line, but the team has time to address the need before the start of the 2026 season.